Peripherally inserted central catheter - dressing change

Definition

A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is a long, thin tube that goes into your body through a vein in your upper arm. The end of this catheter goes into a large vein near your heart.

At home you will need to change the dressing that protects the catheter site. A nurse or technician will show you how to change the dressing. Use the information below to help remind you of the steps.

Alternative Names

PICC - dressing change

What to Expect at Home

The PICC carries nutrients and medicines into your body. It may also be used to draw blood when you need to have blood tests.

Dressing Changes

A dressing is a special bandage that blocks germs and keeps your catheter site dry and clean. You should change the dressing about once a week. You need to change it sooner if it becomes loose or gets wet or dirty.

Since a PICC is placed in one of your arms and you need two hands to change the dressing, it is best to have someone help you with the dressing change. Your nurse will teach you how your dressing should be changed. Have the person who helps you also watch and listen to the nurse's or technician's instructions.

Your health care provider will give you a prescription for the supplies you need. You can buy these items at a medical supply store. It helps to know the name of your catheter and what company makes it. Write this information down and keep it handy.

Changing Your Dressings

The information below outlines the steps for changing your dressing. Follow any additional instructions your provider gives you.

To change the dressing, you need:

If you have been prescribed a dressing change kit, follow the instructions for using the supplies in your kit.

Prepare to change your dressing in a sterile (very clean) way:

Remove the dressing and check your skin:

Clean the area and catheter:

To place a new dressing:

Tape the catheter to secure it:

Throw away the face mask and gloves and wash your hands when done. Write down the date you changed your dressing.

Other Care

Keep all the clamps on your catheter closed at all times. If instructed, change the caps (ports) at the end of the catheter when you change your dressing and after blood draws.

It is usually OK to take showers and baths several days after your catheter is put in place. Ask your provider how long to wait. When you do shower or bathe, make sure the dressing is secure and your catheter site stays dry. Do not let the catheter site go under water if you are soaking in a bathtub.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if you have:

Also contact your provider if your catheter:

References

Smith SF, Duell DJ, Martin BC, Gonzalez L, Aebersold M. Central vascular access devices. In: Smith SF, Duell DJ, Martin BC, Gonzalez L, Aebersold M, eds. Clinical Nursing Skills: Basic to Advanced Skills. 9th ed. New York, NY: Pearson; 2016:chap 29.


Review Date: 10/13/2023
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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